It is very hard to not get excited about this incredible and understated Omega Chronograph wristwatch - Dated to 1965 . We are proud to offer this beautiful and increasingly rare vintage Omega Chronograph, a prime example of mid-century watchmaking elegance and sporting function. This model, typically referenced as 101.009,101.0009 or101.00009-66, is a highly sought-after two-register chronograph from the 1960s.
Key Features:
Reference: This watch appears as the the Ref. 101.009 / 101.0009 (or 101.00009-66), a classic vintage Omega chronograph reference from the mid-1960s. we assume the 00009 Marked pieces were the last of the Production
Movement: It is powered by the revered Omega Caliber 320 manual-winding chronograph movement, Fully serviced by us.
The Caliber 320 is the two-register (two sub-dial) version of the legendary Caliber 321, famously used in the early "pre-moon" Omega Speedmasters.
This column-wheel caliber, developed by Lemania, is considered one of the most reliable and high-quality movements produced by Omega in the 1960s.
Case: The watch features a classic under stated round , three piece clip back case in stainless steel.
The case diameter is 35 mm (excluding the crown), a classic and modest size for the era that still commands a substantial wrist presence. Especially on the flat grain of rice link omega
Dial & Hands: Totally original and in superfine sharp condition .This omega timepiece showcases an attractive silver-colored (or white) dial with a two-register chronograph layout. Minimalist and symmetrical with applied omega Sign and Tachymetric outer scale .
It features two horizontal counters (sub-dials) located at 3 and 9 o'clock.
A black tachymeter scale is visible on the inner ring of the dial.
The main hands are straight or "stick" style with black inserts.
Applied steel hour markers with black central strips
The watch is fitted with a stunning and period-correct 'Beads of Rice' style stainless steel bracelet, known for its intricate, chainmail-like construction and superior comfort.
The Beads of Rice design was popular for Omega watches during the 1960s and is a sought-after element for vintage collectors.
Collector's Note:
The clean, balanced aesthetic of a two-register chronograph is particularly captivating to collectors. This model's understated elegance, combined with the legendary Caliber 320, makes it a highly desirable piece of Omega history. While most dress chronographs from this time were produced with white/silver dials, they remain elegant and wearable today.
Unsurprisingly, for a watch of this magnitude, the dial has a lot going on, yet Omega have still managed to make it look unfussy and it's easy to read. At 12 o'clock we have the Omega name and logo, along with the anniversary edition '125' in applied steel, while 'Speedmaster' is painted. a 12-hour recorder at 6 o'clock and 24-hour recorder with continuous seconds are at 9 o'clock. The tachymetre scale is on the outer dial ring.
Founded by Louis Brandt in 1848, Omega started out as La Generale Watch Co., an unassuming, but international business. It wasn't until 1885, when the company had been taken over by Louis' sons, that the first mass-produced caliber, the Labrador, was released. By 1903, the company had renamed itself Omega and only two years later were they the official timekeepers at many sporting events across Switzerland. Omega stepped onto an international stage in 1932 as the official timekeepers at the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, the first of over 20 Olympic Games. Omega were one of the 12 companies, now known as the Dirty Dozen, commissioned to produce watches for the British Military during the Second World War. One of Omega's most iconic watches, the Seamaster, was introduced in 1948 to celebrate their 100th anniversary. Over 70 years later, it is still one of Omega's best selling watches. Omega made headlines in 1962 when Wally Schirra wore the Speedmaster as part of NASA's first crewed spaceflight programme, making the Speedmaster the first watch to enter space. It was only a few years before the Speedmaster became the official chronograph for the American space missions and was worn by Buzz Aldrin as well as the Apollo 13 crew. Omega are still involved with NASA and have been instrumental in creating vital pieces of equipment for space exploration.
Chronographs have often had historical significance, timing and calculating some of the world's most important events, and one watch that always comes to mind when discussing these notable occasions is the Omega Speedmaster, as it was the first watch to be worn on the moon (it was actually the watch of choice for all six lunar missions), and it's from here that it has, rightly, earned its nickname of 'the Moon Watch.'
This watch comes fully serviced with our extended 24 Month Service cover
What we think
You won't easily find another example of this stunning vintage Omega chronograph in comparable condition today. This highly sought-after 'Dress Chronograph' stands apart from its more common cousin, the Speedmaster, which was produced in large quantities. Its rarity and the quality of its movement (a column-wheel legend) make it a fantastic investment piece. This is a rare chance to own a sophisticated, sleek chronograph—a choice for the enthusiast with a discerning eye. We are also happy to include a selection of leather strap options upon request.
Spec Stuff
Serial : 2262*****
Reference : 101.00009 -66
Movement : Cal. 320, 17 Jewels
Age : 1961/1970 Specific Age : 1965 Case Size : 35mm Case Thickness : 13mm Lug to Lug : 40mm Lugs : 18mm Condition : Pre-Owned Box & Papers : Omega Box Case Material : Stainless Steel Service History : Our 24 Months Service cover
1965 Omega Classic & beautiful dress Chronograph model 101.00009 with fantastic original dial + Box
